Stuff You've Missed Out on - June 2008 - updated

Okay the word is out. GrooveBack Wednesdays at Posh are What's up. I didn't make it, but I heard it was All the Way Live. It was a blast and that I shouldn't miss going the Grooveback Wednesday with DJ Needles ever again. It's free, the drinks are luscious, and the music was right on time.

And the Wine & Beer Tasting sponsored by Connect With... was fabulous. There were well over 100 of St. Louis' most gregarious young professionals. For $5, you could enjoy as many bottles of Schlafly and Ray Hills as you wanted. And Twin Oaks Winery (of Farmington, MO) & Stone Hill Winery (of Hermann, MO) were pouring the entire evening. You really missed out. Plus, a big save by Scott Lapp of River City Professionals. He donated cases of beer from his personal reserve for the event.

Don't miss out on the next Wine Tasting Event sponsored by the Young Friends of the Missouri Botanical Garden.
Young Friends’ Wine Tasting

June 18, 2008

Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House (near Faust Park in Chesterfield, MO)

6 to 8 p.m.
Sample the best vintages of Mount Pleasant Winery with other young professionals in the beautiful backdrop of the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House.
Cost: $20 ($15 for Garden Members)

Ticket price includes appetizers, live music, and a commemorative wine glass.

Space is limited! Reserve your spot today!For more information about this event or Young Friends of the Garden, contact Andrea Sykes or call (314) 577-9432.

I didn't make it, so please, someone leave a comment about how great the event was.

The Urban League Young Professionals Renaisance Gala was fabulous. The house was packed. We had a BALL!!

Late Breaker --I learned about a social networking event sponsored by the RBC. It was simply beautiful. The pool balcony of the Four Seasons...Sorry no pictures available. If anyone wants to offer some pics, please forward them. I'm still learning about the RBC - Regional Business Council, but what I've gleaned, it's a great organization that attracts and retains young professionals in the region. Check them out.

I hope you're not still missing out on all of this GREAT Stuff.

In Memorium Lee "The Rose Man" Nixon

The Rose Man has passed away. Seems he was caught in the middle of gunfire at 3 am this morning at the Soft Touch on the East side. (Yes, you read that right). The Rose Man seemed to be everywhere, all the time. He was a nightclub regular - at all the loca clubs - he sold long-stemmed roses for a modest price. His business was located at the corner of Kingshighway and MLK. Read the developing story from STLToday.com Nightclub fixture the Rose Man silenced by weekend violence.

Rest in Peace.

Organization Spotlight -- River City Professionals

I'm still not exactly sure how I discovered this organization. The best of my pieced together memory tells me that my friend DC forwarded an email about an upcoming event they were hosting and I've been linked in every since.

I attended my first River City Professionals, whew, was it back in 2005...or 2006...2005 it was. I attended the Happy Hour at the Missouri Botanical Garden and I was impressed. I RSVPed for the event and I had a pre-printed self-adhesive name tag waiting for me. WOW!!! I liked that. I met lots of people -- everyone was friendly.

So here is how RCP works.
1. Membership is FREE. You sign up with your email and you get a monthly notice about an upcoming happy hour.
2. The Happy Hours are always on the 3rd Tuesday of the month -- also free -- and the location changes each month
3. Each event features a spotlight on a special vent, organization, charity, or guest. So it's always fresh and novel.
4. People are friendly, especially Scott Lap the founder. Now, if you have no idea who Scott is, you're a wall flower. Scott is The Man About Town in St. Louis. And he's amazingly gracious and generous. Do you need to advertise an event or get the word out about something fabulous, fun, or worthy happening in St. Louis. Just let Scott know and he'll help you get the word out.
5. They host an extensive St. Louis Events calendar and a Blog about local happenings. I feign at being competition for them.

So, check out RCP and maybe I'll see you at an upcoming event. In fact the June RCP Happy Hour is tomorrow (June 17) at the ever-so-nice-but-doesn't-have-enough-exits Mandarin, with special guest Mr. Mike McMillan.

May 2008 Events

Thu May 1
8 pm – 1:30 am
2nd Annual RAISE THE ROOF Model Appreciation Party
Presented by Synergy Productions and ALIVE Magazine
Mandarin
44 Maryland Plaza in the CWE
RSVP: guestlist@synergystl.com

Sat May 3

K-Ci & Jo-Jo in Concert
President Casino

Sat May 3 – Sun May 4

Spring Downtown Living Tour

12:00 - 5:00pm
Cost $7

Thu May 8 – Sat 10

St. Louis Brewers Heritage Festival

Forest Park


Fri May 9 REGISTRATION DEADLINE

W.O.W National Outdoor Recreation and Conservation School teaches participants how to enjoy a wide range of outdoor recreation activities while practicing personal safety and outdoor responsibility. Classes include Archery, Camping, Fishing, Shooting Sports, Outdoor Skills, Rock Climbing, Nature Arts & Photography, Geocaching, and Outdoor Survival Skills.
Overnight Camping is available, too. Check out the Program Booklet.
Pre-registration is required. Must register my mail by May 9, 2008.
Cost is $15 per person or $25 per family (up to 6 people, $2 for each additional person). That's a steal, but Financial Assistance is available if you need it.

Sat May 10
Old North St. Louis House Tour
St. Louis Avenue & N 14th (Across from Crown Candy)$10 advance, $12 on site.Proceeds support neighborhood projects in North City. Or Volunteer! and attend for FREE. Shifts are: 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 12:30 to 4 p.m.Old North St. Louis Restoration Group is seeking volunteers to work visitor check in and to serve as docents in their annual house tour. Refreshments will be provided and volunteers are invited to the after-tour appreciation party. If you are interested involunteering, contact us at volunteer@fuelforthecity.org.

Sat May 10

7:30 pm – 12:30 am
Urbanaire (this is my new favorite word)
Benefit for PROMO
The Rialto Ballroom, Centene Center for the Arts
3547 Olive St, Grand Centerphoto

Thu May 15

11:30 am - 1:30 pm
Ten Toe Spring 2008 Kick-off

Memorial Park in Clayton adjacent to the County Government Building at 41 S. Central

Fri May 16

Deadline to register for Make Tracks for the Zoo 23rd Annual Run/Walk on Sunday, June 1, 2008

$18 Individual registration (before May 16)

$22 Individual registration (after May 16)

$10 Kids' Race (under 12 years) separate registration required

$50 Family registration (limit of four individuals in same family)

$10 per additional family member

Note: There is no family registration allowed after May 18

Sat May 17

4-6 pm

Blues in Benton Park with Rough Grooves

free

Sun May 18

Southwest Garden Home and Garden Improvement Tour (The Hill)
Hanneke Hardware on Southwest Avenue

$15 advance, $18 on-site

Or Volunteer! and attend for FREE.

Shifts are: 11:45 - 2:15 and 2:00 - 4:15. The Southwest Garden Neighborhood Association is seeking volunteers to greet guests and help homeowners keep an eye on things at their annual Home and Garden tour. The tour will take place from noon to 4 pm. Volunteers can go on the tour free of charge, before or after their shift. Volunteers are also invited to attend the after tour party. If you are interested in volunteering, contact us at volunteer@fuelforthecity.org.

Wed May 21
6:30 pm to 8pm
World Cultural Diversity Day: A Panel Discussion that will explore cultural diversity experiences in our community
Belas Artes "Connecting people & cultures through heART";
Belas Artes is located at 1854 Russell Blvd, St. Louis MO 63104
Phone: 314-772-ARTS / 772-2787

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND EVENTS (Fri May 23 - Mon May 26)

Fri May 23
8 pm
Beer Tasting and Sampling
Ray Hill’s Beer
Club 314 (Hazelwood)3551 Pennridge Dr

Fri May 23
5:00 – 7:00 pm
St. Louis Zoo Kicks off its Friday Night Concert Series and extended open hours.
Jungle Boogie: "Cha-cha" with the cheetahs, "salsa" with the sea lions or "two-step" with the tigers at Jungle Boogie, the Zoo's Friday Night concert series for the whole family.
Central Plaza
Free admission, Free Parking

Fri May 23 – Sat May 24
2nd Annual Schlafly Brew & Q
Fri: 5 – 10pm
Sat: 12 -10 pm
Schlafly Bottleworks (Maplewood)

Fri May 23 - Mon May 26
Rib America Festival

Fri May 23 - Mon May 26
St. Louis African Arts Festival

Sat May 24
Mint Condition in Concert President Casino

Thu May 29
8 pm
ERYKAH BADU, THE ROOTS at the Fox Theatre
$38-$59, MetroTix.
Erykah Badu's previous St. Louis appearance, a headlining spot at the National Urban League's annual convention, was a fish-out-of-water gig for the neo-soul princess. Conventioneers didn't "get" her, but she'll be right at home at this performance, creating her own "New Amerykah" for fans right inside the Fox. The Roots cement a must-see show.

Fri May 30
11am
Come help Habitat for Humanity kick off its 2008 Build Season in JeffVanderLou neighborhood!3038 Thomas
St. Louis MO, 61306
All are welcome who want to help celebrate the start of another year of helping our homeowners realize their dream of homeownership. We would love to see you there! Bring your camera, it is sure to be a memorable moment!! For more information or directions to the build site, please contact:
Josh Palacios
314-371-0400 x 21
joshua@habitatstl.org
For a printer friendly flyer, please CLICK HERE!

Sat May 31
St. Louis Jazz and Heritage Festival in Clayton
Performers include Joe Sample, Randy Crawford, Cassandra Wilson Festival

~~~~ All Month ~~~~

Comedy on Parade with Bill Chot – The Improv Trick
Mondays in May
7:30 pm
Mad Art Gallery

Tuesdays in May

Twilight Tuesdays at the Missouri History Museum

Pack a picnic and bring a blanket.

Free, for the whole family.

Featuring Ray Hill's Beer at the Vendor Booth.

Did you know that Ray Hill's Beer was voted the 2nd Most Favorite Local Microbrew in the Riverfront Times 2008 Restaurant Guide?

Chuck Close at Shearburn Gallery
April 4- May 10

Dinoroarus Exhibit at the St. Louis Zoo
Open April 18 through September 1, 2008
Step back in time to see roaring, spitting, moving dinosaurs in this one-of-a-kind walk-through exhibit. Admission is $1.50 for Zoo Friends members and $3 for non-members. Children under two are free.

St. Louis Shakespeare Festival

May 21 - June 15

6- 10:30 nightly (except Tuesdays)
The Tragedy of King Richard The Third
Green show (abbreviated show for the kids and those with ADHD at 6:30 pm)

Art Hill

Free

Threads of History - A major Exhibit of early American Quilts at the St. Louis Art Museum Open now through May 26, 2008 Cost: $6 adults, $5 students & seniors, $4 children 6-12, free under 6.

Fridays in May
5:00 – 7:00 pm
St. Louis Zoo Kicks off its Friday Night Concert Series and extended open hours.
Jungle Boogie: "Cha-cha" with the cheetahs, "salsa" with the sea lions or "two-step" with the tigers at Jungle Boogie, the Zoo's Friday Night concert series for the whole family.
Central Plaza
Free admission, Free Parking

Niki Exhibit - Colorful, Playful Mosaic Sculptures by Niki De Saint Phalle at the Missouri Botanical Garden
Open April 27 - October 31, 2008

Organization Spotlight -- Connect With...

I’m doing something new, but long over due. I’m highlighting a local, super-fabulous young professional roganization – Connect With. And it seems appropriate to start with this organization because it is a Collaborative of dozens of other great professional organizations. It brings together all of the best of St. Loui s’ energetic superstars.

"Connect With . . . " aims to showcase all the interesting and unique facets of St. Louis, whether it is arts and culture, community service, diversity initiatives, professional development or networking. It's a groundbreaking effort that St. Louisans should be proud of.

Each October is Young Profesisonal’s Month in St. Louis City. Each partner organization sponsors an event and gives the public an opportunity to learn more about it and its mission. Check out the list, you see an organization you know or may want to know.

April 2008 Events

Wed April 9
7 pm
Authors @ Your Library Presents Keisha Ervin
She will discuss her new book, Torn.
Carpenter Branch Library
3309 S Grand

Sat April 12
2 pm
Authors @ Your Library Presents Eric Jerome Dickey
He will discuss and sign his newest book, Pleasure.
Carpenter Branch Library
3309 S Grand

Fri April 18
Dinoroarus Exhibit Opens
All day
St. Louis Zoo

Sun April 20
St. Louis Earth Day Festival at Forest Park
Earth Day: Party for the Planet family activities at the Zoo.
For information, call (314) 781-0900

Thu April 24
Dining Out For Life
Various restaraunts will donate 25% or more of your bill's proceeds to St. Louis Effort for Aids.

Thu April 24
6:30 pm
MO Words: The Power of Words
Missouri History Museum

Thu April 24
9pm
ALIVE 5th Anniversary Party
HOME Night Club at AmeriStar Casino
St. Charles, MO

Sat April 26
10 am - 4 pm
Wings of Spring - 3rd Annual Confluence Birding Festival
Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary
West Alton, MO - Hwy 67 near Alton, Illinois
Daily Activities include Live Bird Displays (Owls, Ravens, Hawks, Pelicans, & More), Kayak Trips, Bird Cruise, and Live Entertainment

Sun April 27
1 - 5 pm
Grand Opening & Open House of the Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic
1864 Little Brennan Road
High Ridge, MO (South of I-44 & 270, off of South Gravois)
Walk through of the facility and visit the 'patients' - raccoons, squirrels, rabbits, opossums, and a baby fox.
636 677-3670

Sun April 27
Celebrate St. Louis /Live on the Levee Trivia Night
Jive & Wail Piano Bar
7376 Manchester Road
Volunteer! Shifts: 3:30 - 7:30 PM (5 volunteers needed) & 4:00 - 8:00 PM (10-15 volunteers needed)
Organizers of Celebrate St. Louis/Live on the Levee are seeking volunteers to help with tallying score sheets and monitoring the silent auction at their trivia night fundraiser. There will be live music, 50/50 raffles, silent auction, drinks, food & more! If you are interested in volunteering, contact us at: volunteer@fuelforthecity.org.

Sun April 27
Niki Exhbit Opens
Missouri Botanical Gardens

Tue April 29
Twilight Tuesdays Begins!
The Bosman Twins
Identical twins Dwayne and Dwight Bosman bring their "rough and raw" style of jazz to Twilight Tuesdays.
Front Lawn of the Missouri History Museum

Tue April 29
6:00 -9:00 pm
Old Bags Event
The Living World at the St. Louis Zoo
Charitable Event benefiting the Foster and Adoptive Care Coalition. For more information, please visit http://www.marketvolt.com/custapp/cc.aspx?CM=54045019&X=3189083&MailingID=40281&LS=184.

Wed April 30
7 - 8 pm
NPR News & Notes will feature fellow St. Louis Blogger The Black Snob
KWMU FM 90.7 Tune in

Ongoing - All Month

Fairy Tale Exhibit featuring illustrations of famous characters, styles.
Schlafly Branch Library
225 N Euclid

Chuck Close at Shearburn Gallery

April 4- May 10

Dinoroarus Exhibit at the St. Louis Zoo

Open April 18 through September 1, 2008

Step back in time to see roaring, spitting, moving dinosaurs in this one-of-a-kind walk-through exhibit. Admission is $1.50 for Zoo Friends members and $3 for non-members. Children under two are free.

Threads of History - A major Exhiit of early American Quilts at the St. Louis Art Museum

Open now through May 26, 2008

Cost: $6 adults, $5 students & seniors, $4 children 6-12, free under 6.

Niki Exhibit - Colorful, Playful Mosaic Sculptures by Niki De Saint Phalle at the Missouri Botanical Garden

Open April 27 - October 31, 2008

2008 Fête Society Theme: Activing Living. Active Learning

St. Louis, Missouri is the best place to be in the Spring and Summer. There is so much to do, see, experience, and enjoy!

This year's theme was inspired by yesterday's race and my receipt of many upcoming events calendars from the Zoo, the Library, Trailnet and my Missouri Conservationist Magazine. I like having subscriptions (print and/or electronic) to these many different organizations. I know what's going on. So I enourage everyone to get hooked in too. I'll be posting from these calendars. So no excuses. Get outside. Get your family moving and learning. Time at the Botanical Garden or free concert/movie at one of the local parks is perfect way to connect with your friends and family and no break your wallet.

Make this year a fantastic year!

St. Louis Marathon - Get Fit Fête!

26.2 miles - that's a Marathon!

Two of Fête's fittest participated in today's Spirit of St. Louis Marathon. I was standing in the median in Soulard near the Brewery and all one could see was a "sea" of bodies. I was beginning to fear I overlooked our friends when I spotted the first, then the second -- and still running in their desired pace group.

Quiet as it is kept, TE was walking until he saw me with camera in hand. PH waved happily but was rather consumed with the Itunes. Woo --hooo! No small feat. I figured if they could run 13.1 miles, I could walk the ~2 miles down to cheer them on.

The Marathon itself is something to behold. I took a crack it once 2 years ago. (Walking of course.) It's no punk. I only did half of the half marathon....

But a Marathon is People, lots of people. Observing it near the race loop in Soulard (near AB Brewery) was great. I stood in the median and got to see the everyone pass by twice. The 2 leaders just zoomed by. There was this one older guy who had an awkward neck posture while running. But he floated, literally. He had absolutely no bounce or shock on this feet. Most runners were 30 and 40 somethings - from the look, but people of all ages, young and old were there. All shapes, too. There were 2 wheel chair runners and one woman running with her friend who had no arms or legs. Hell, I felt shame. If this woman with no arms or legs could run the marathon, all of us should commit to a more active and healthy life style this spring.

What's more is the aftermath. Thousands of people are passing by. Running. Jogging, Walking. Several stop to stretch out calves and hamstrings. You tell by the agony in many of their faces that their knees or hips or feet or shins are killing them Yet, they continue. There are refreshement stops along the way. And people are drinking and dropping cups and protein bar wrappers. There are piles of trash and the volunteer staff cleans it up as soon as all of the walkers have passed.

There are port-a-potties for them to use, so they have to step of the race to use it. Then they continue.

The best part is piles of descarded clothing...and good stuff too.

I even scored myself a pair of great gloves!

Spring 2008

MARCH

Sun March 30
2 p.m.
Scott Joplin House
"St. Louis Black Women's Social Organizations-1890-1910"
Karla Frye, Ph.D., Missouri Department of Natural Resources, will explore the power that the black women's social organizations yielded in directing the moral and cultural St. Louis conscience. Thomasina Clark will perform songs from the era.
2658A Delmar
St. Louis City 63103

February 2008 Events

Black History Month Guest Authors & Speakers
Sunday, Feb 10
Authors @ Your Library presents: Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr.
Central Library
1301 Olive
Downtown St. Louis
2:00PM - 4:00PM
The St. Louis Public Library invites you to join us in Central Library's Great Hall as we celebrate Black History Month 2008 with renowned Harvard Professor, Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr., as our keynote speaker. Throughout his life Dr. Gates has struggled to overcome the psychological effects of racism. He is a passionate supporter of a multicultural approach towards education and he is considered one of the most powerful academic voices in America. The charismatic Harvard Professor is recognized for his extensive research of African American history and literature and for developing and expanding the African American study program at Harvard University. Left Bank Books will provide his books for booksigning. The first African American to earn a Ph.D. at Cambridge University in England, Dr. Gates has dedicated his career to bringing African American culture to the public. He has written and produced some of the most comprehensive African American reference materials in the country. Henry Louis Gates, Jr. is the Dean of the Department of African and African American studies at Harvard University.

Monday, Feb 11
Big Brothers Big Sisters Speakers Series presents: Michael Eric Dyson
Busch Student Center
St. Louis University

Black History Month Events

The St. Louis Public Library is hosting guite a few events for Black History Month. Check it out: For Kids & Teens

St. Louis County Library also has a whole host events for the entire month. Check it out here.

Carver Days at the Missouri Botanical Garden (family)
Saturday-Monday, February 16 through 18
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
A three-day weekend of family fun with a focus on George Washington Carver, one of America's great scientists and educators.

Activities include:
Story-telling with KMOV-TV anchor Vickie Newton. Saturday, 11 a.m.
“The ABC’s of George Washington Carver,” where children may ask questions of this famous man. Sunday and Monday at 11 a.m.
“Listening to the Still Small Voice,” an award-winning one-man live performance about Carver’s life. Sunday and Monday at 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Throughout the weekend:
Visit the “Jesup Wagon,” Carver’s movable school where kids are invited to explore and experiment in Carver’s footsteps.
Ride the free shuttle to the Carver Garden (weather permitting).
Eat Carver-inspired sweet potato and peanut dishes, available for purchase in Sassafras.
Activities are included with Garden admission.
Visit us online for more information.

GenNext Service Opportunities
Saturday, February 16

Cardinal Ritter Senior Services
10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
7609 Watson Rd.
Webster Groves, MO
Volunteers will visit with residents from Our Lady of Perpetual Health assisted living center. Volunteers will also serve lunch and refreshments.
Cardinal Ritter Senior Services provides home health services and housing for the elderly.
A thank-you event will immediately follow at CJ Muggs in Webster Groves

Edgewood Children's Center
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
330 N. Gore
Webster Groves, MO
Volunteers will do arts and crafts with the kids, make Valentines together and play board games. If the weather is nice, volunteers can also play outdoor games.
Edgewood Children's Center provides services for children with severe emotional, behavioral and communication disorders, particularly those with autism or Asperger's Syndrome.

Alzheimer's Association, St. Louis Chapter
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
9374 Olive Blvd.
St. Louis, MO
Help this agency prepare for an upcoming special event and other projects around the office.
Alzheimer's Association provides services and support to individuals affected by Alzheimer's and their families and care partners.

United Way's GenNext program invites people in their twenties and thirties to strengthen the St. Louis community by participating in meaningful volunteer opportunites, learning from influential leaders and networking with a diverse group of peers. GenNext is a great way for young professionals to get involved in the community while advancing their careers.


Missouri Botanical Garden’s Young Friends Coffee Evening
Wednesday, Feb 27
6:00pm - 8:00pm
Missouri Botanical Garden - Ridgway Center
Join the Missouri Botanical Garden ’s Young Friends for an evening of coffee tasting, a cupping demonstration, The Birth of Coffee photo exhibition, and the Storybook Classics orchid show, where over 800 winter-blooming orchids are displayed in an indoor paradise.The event is free but reservations are required by calling (314) 577-9432.
For more information, visit http://www.mobot.org/.

Winter 2008 Events

Delta Dental Winter Zoo 2008 (family)
Enjoy family fun activities and entertainment indoors at the Zoo.
Noon -4
Admission is free.
Sunday, Jan 13
Sunday, Jan 20: A special Disney Production will be featured.
Sunday, Jan 27
Sunday, Feb 3: A special Disney Production will be featured and Mardi Gras Celebration.



Eagle Days (family)
See our nation's symbol, the Bald Eagle. Missouri is home to the largest over-wintering population of these magnificent raptors in the Lower 48.
Old Chain of Rocks Bridge at Riverview & I-270. Dress for cold weather.
Saturday, Jan 19 : all day
Sunday, Jan 20 : all day


Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Service Project (family)
10-noon
Monday, Jan 21
The Public is invited to come out and help make a difference in honor of a man who made a difference.

Missouri Botanical Garden’s Young Friends Coffee Evening
Wednesday, Feb 27
6:00pm - 8:00pm
Missouri Botanical Garden - Ridgway Center
Join the Missouri Botanical Garden ’s Young Friends for an evening of coffee tasting, a cupping demonstration, The Birth of Coffee photo exhibition, and the Storybook Classics orchid show, where over 800 winter-blooming orchids are displayed in an indoor paradise.
The event is free but reservations are required by calling (314) 577-9432.
For more information, visit http://www.mobot.org/.

July 2007 Events

Tuesday, July 3, 2007
9:00 pm
Alton Fireworks Festival
Alton River Front Park

This annual fireworks festival is presented by the Alton Exposition Commission.

Includes great food, merchandise vendors, entertainment, carnival rides and fireworks. Free and open to the public.

Friday, July 6th - Tuesday, July 31

9am - 5 pm

River Raptors: Spectacular Views of the Mississippi River Art Exhibit

National Great Rivers Museum

Come to the museum for a wonderful exhibit that helps connect communities back to the river. Free and open to the public.

Sunday, July 8

River Wildlife and Ecology

National Great Rivers Museum

This program presented by the St. Louis Zoo includes a power point, live animal presentation and hands-on activities all related to the ecology and wildlife of the Mississippi River.

Thursday, July 19

7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Happy Feet the Movie, opening by St. Louis Artworks Young Upstarts

St. Louis Place ParkOld North St. Louis

Apart of Whitaker Urban Evenings Series

Saturday, July 21

11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
CommUNITY Days at Fairground Park - Games in the Park
(Youth tennis demonstration will begin at 9 a.m.)
Free

Saturday, July 21
Post-Microfest Bus Bash
Bus tour of local Microbreweries
COST: $50

Wednesdays, July 11, 18, 25
10 am
Count on It! Math Workshop
National Great Rivers Museum
Did you know a pelican's wings are wider than you are tall? Learn more about nature, the river, and the dam with number and logic.
Open to children 8-10 years old. Parents are encouraged to attend.
Pre-register by calling 618-462-6979.
Free and open to the public.

July 15, 2007
2:00 pm
Creatures of Myth and Legend Program
National Great Rivers Museum
This program separates fact from fiction about those animals that make you squirm. Discover the truth with our World Bird Sanctuary Naturalists and the live creepy creatures that star in this exciting program.
Free and open to the public.

July 22, 2007
1:00 – 5:00 pm
Summerdays River Travelfest
National Great Rivers Museum
Alton, Illinois
The National Great Rivers Museum will host the Summerdays River Travelfest. Get a first hand look at radio controlled tugboats, submarines, ships, and sailboats. Bring your model boat and let the craftsmen from the St. Louis Model Boat Club show you the skilled intricacies, details and secrets of model boat building.Free and open to the public of all ages.

Wednesday, July 25
6:00 - 10:00 pm
Jammin' at the Zoo
The Young Zoo Friends host a wild summer party in the center of the Zoo with live music and wine tastings. No reservations are needed. Ages 21 and up only.
COST: Free for Zoo Friends members; $10 for the general public.
For more information and advance tickets, call (314)768-5440.


Ongoing
Page Turners: Adult Reading Club Sponsored by the St. Louis City Public Library.
All summer through August 11th
Read and become eligible to win prizes including tickets to a cardinals game and a laptop computer.

Chapungu: Nature, Man, and Myth

An extraordinary collection of stone sculptures by the Shona people of Zimbabwe, Africa.Runs through October 31, 2007

Admision to the sculture exhibit is free with paid MOBot Garden Admission

Perhaps we can arrange a visit to the sculptures on a Whitaker Festival night.

Admission to the Garden is free after 5 pm on Wednesdays during the Whitaker Jazz Festival. We could even include a visit to the George Washington Carver Garden

Later this summer

CommUNITY Days at Fairground Park
Back-to-School in the Park
Saturday, August 18
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Free


Page Turners: Adult Reading Club Sponsored by the St. Louis City Public Library.
All summer through August 11th
Read and become eligible to win prizes including tickets to a cardinals game and a laptop computer.

Chapungu: Nature, Man, and Myth
An extraordinary collection of stone sculptures by the Shona people of Zimbabwe, Africa.
Runs through October 31, 2007
Admision to the sculture exhibit is free with paid MOBot Garden Admission http://www.mobot.org/chapungu/default.asp
Perhaps we can arrange a visit to the sculptures on a Whitaker Festival night. Admission to the Grden is free after 5 pm on Wednesdays during the Whitaker Jazz Festival. We could even include a visit to the George Washington Carver Garden

2007 Festival of Nations InformationA Celebration of Diversity in St. Louis
Saturday, August 25 -10 am to 7 pm
Sunday, August 26 - 10 am to 6 pm
http://www.iistl.org/events/festival.asp

August 5, 2007
2:00 pm
Wild Women of the West
National Great Rivers Museum
Alton, Illinois
Here’s your family’s opportunity for some summer fun, wild western style. This program, performed by Edwardsville native, Karen Stoeber, is a real hootenanny. Check out the unique clothing and lifestyle of pioneer women such as Clamity Jane, Belle Starr, and Anne Oakley.
Free and open to the public of all ages.

August 12, 2007
2:00 pm
River Wildlife and Ecology
National Great Rivers Museum
Alton, Illinois
The National Great Rivers Museum will host River Wildlife and Ecology. This program presented by the St. Louis Zoo includes a PowerPoint, live animal presentation and hands-on activities all related to the ecology and wildlife of the Mississippi River.
Free

Thursday, August 16
8 am - 5 pm
Get Motivated Business Seminar
Scottrade Center - Featuring General Colin Powell (US Army, Retired) and Former Secretary of State
Premier Seating (at the top of the center in the upper level seating area)
$4.95 individual or $49.95 unlimited number
Executive Seating (probably second level she was not sure)
$39.95 individual or $199 for 10 seats
VIP seating (rows 21 and back on the floor near the stage)
$59.95 individual or $499 for 10 seats
Platinum (rows 1 – 20 on the floor by the stage)
$89.95 individual or $699 for 10

St. Louis Summer Concerts - Free!

Spring has Sprung...and in St. Louis Spring is just a two-day flirt. It's summertime in this city. Let's enjoy it with lots of Free summer concerts! Click on the links for more info.

Twilight Tuesdays at the Missouri History Museum
May 1 - Denise Thimes (jazz, traditional standards)
May 8 - Soulard Blues Band
May 15 - Tim Cunningham (jazz saxophonist)
May 22 - Javier Mendoza
May 29 - Coco Soul
June 5 - Honeyvox
June 12 - Arvell and Company (tribute to Earth Wind and Fire)
June 19 - Motown Revue

Jungle Boogie Friday Night Concert Series at the St. Louis Zoo
May 25 - Ralph Butler (R&B)
June 1 - Gargoyle Reign (Pop / Rock)
June 8 - Bored of Education (Pop / Rock)
June 15 - No concert (ZOOFARI)
June 22 - Mo and Dawn (Jazz)
June 29 - Blake Travis of Dangerous Kitchen (Rock / Blues)
July 6 - Gumbohead (Zydeco)
July 13 - Might Big Band (Blues / R&B)
July 20 - Boogie Chyld (Funk)
July 27 - Charles Glenn (Vocal / Jazz)
August 3 - Javier Mendoza (Rock)
August 10 - Clave Sol (Caribbean / Jazz)
August 17 - Arvell and Co. (Motown / R&B)
August 24 - My Friend Mike (Pop / Rock)
August 31 - Kim Massie (Blues)

Whitaker Music Festival at the Missouri Botanical Garden (Wednesdays)
June 6 - Jeremy Davenport
June 13 - Trio Tres Bien
June 20 - Dave Black and Friends
June 27 - Erin Bode
July 4 - The Flying Mules
July 11 - Will Maring Acoustic
July 18 - Baker-Mclaren Band
July 25 - Melissa Neels
August 1 - Peter Mayer
August 8 - Gumbohead

Live on the Levee at the Riverfront
July 3 - Goo Goo Dolls
July 4 - Cindy Lauper
July 14 - Bruce Hornsby
July 27 - Steel Pulse
July 28 - Musiq Soulchild
Aug 3 - Robert Randolf and the Family Band

Whitaker Urban Evenings Series - St. Louis Place Park (Thursdays)
7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
St. Louis Place Park
Old North St. Louis
June 21 – Kim Massie, opening by Gene Dobbs Bradford and Blues Inquistion
July5 – Good For the Soul, opening by the Jazz St. Louis’ THF reality All-Star Student Ensemble
July 12 – Erin Bode, opening by Bob Bennett’s Swing & Soul
July 26 – Gumbo Head, opening by Phoebe Claggett

Call 314 539-9500 for more information

Sounds of the Station - Union Station (Thursdays)
June 21 - Dr. Zhivegas
July 19 - Shooting Star!
August 16 - Dis Wizzle!
September 20 - The Well Hungarians

Carondelet Park Concerts (Sundays)
6:00 - 8:00 pm
June 10 - Erin Bode (Jazz-Pop)
June 17 - Lucky Shy (Country Rock)
June 24 - Fanfare (Variety Big Band)
July 1 - Poor People of Paris (French Tunes)
July - 8 Gateway City Big Band (40's / 50's Big Band)
July 15 - St. Louis Ragtimers (Ragtime)
July 22 - Mystic Voyage (Motown – Jazz)
July 29 - Mitzi MacDonald (Celtic)
August 5 - Kevin Mitchell Four (Jazz)
August 12 - Waterloo German Band (Festive German)
August 19 - Cornet Chop Suey (Jazz)

St. Louis Square Park Concerts (Mondays)
7:00 – 9:00 pm
June 11 - Gateway Jazz Quartet (Dixieland – Jazz)
June 18 - Liquid Prairie (Old Country)
June 25 - Herb Eberle (German / Ethnic)

Bellerive Park Concerts (Mondays)
7:00 – 9:00 pm
July 2 - The Greer's (Bluegrass)
July 9 - Fox Creek (Bluegrass)
July 16 - Have Strings Will Travel (Old Time Bluegrass)
July 23 - Chris Talley Trio (Bluegrass)

Fête Fitness, Fun, and Philanthropy

Do you like to combine fun and volunteerism with fitness and health awareness? Good for you!

Below are postings for upcoming events that let you to excerise, educate others about health issues AND raise awareness and funds for very worthy causes.

June 2007

Make Tracks for the Zoo

Register online or call (314) 768-5440

Sign up as a family and save!

For more info about St. Louis Area Walks & Runs, click here. You're sure to find an event to fit your schedule and/or interests.

Or post a comment and I'll add more.

Saturday, June 23
9:30 am - 5:30 pm
The Amazing Challenge
St. Louis Science Museum
As a team, you and your friends or family will participate in an amazing new program designed to challenge you both physically and mentally. It also is an excellent team-building experience, as you will work together, relying on each other's strengths, to compete for an awesome prize package.
For details and registration information, please call Barb at 314-289-4439.

Tuesday, June 26

11:00 am - 7:00 pm

POW's 3rd Annual Charitable Golf Tournament

Probstein Golf Course, Forest Park

Proceeds benefit the Frankie M. Freeman Scholarship Fund

June 2007 Events

Saturday, June 2
10am - 6pm
Autohaus of Clayton Presents “The Ultimate Drive for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation”
The Autohaus Parts and Service Dept
125 S. Hunter in Clayton
You Drive the Miles, BMW Donates the Dollars!
Just get behind the wheel of a new BMW vehicle of your choice in the Ultimate Drive® for Susan G. Komen for the Cure event. As a participant, you'll find plenty of BMW models to test drive, such as the thrilling 3 Series Coupe, the sporty X3 SAV® and this year's Signature Vehicle, the dynamic X5 SAV. For every mile you drive BMW will donate $1 on your behalf to Komen.
Festivites will include:
Vito's Italian Cuisine
Music by the Ralph Butler Band - featuring Teddy on the Bass
Desserts by Maggie Moo's Ice Cream & Kaldi's Coffee Pink Ladies Dancing For the Cause Special Hero & Local Celebrities for Ceremonial First Drive Goody Bags & Giveaways
FREE, yes, absolutely free and philanthropic! But RSVP needed.
To register for this event, please go online at www.bmwusa.com/bmwexperience/EventsandPrograms/UDSK/
OR contact Darcy Lane at 314-727-8877 x 2102 or e-mail her at darcy.lane@bmwautohaus.com

Friday June 8 – Saturday, June 9
St. Louis 12 Annual Microfest
Upper Muny ParkingForest Park
Rain or Shine
Cost: $25, Proceeds benefiting the Lift for Life Academy

Saturday, June 9
5:30 - 11pm
Shakespeare Festival: "Much Ado About Nothing"
Greenshow starts at 6:30 pm - for the children and adults with ADHD
Feature begins at 8:00 pm
(We arrive early to claim prime real-estate. The natural amphi-theatre grounds become filled quickly.)
Free
Bring your own food, beverages, blankets, chairs, and bug repellant.

Saturday, June 9 – Sunday, June 10
Free Fishing Days – No Permit needed
Maybe you've never fished before, and you're not sure if it's right for you. Anglers can wet their lines in state waters without having to buy fishing permits, daily trout tags or trout permits at most locations.

Saturday, June 9 - Sunday, June 10
International Horse Radish Festival
Collinsville, Illinois

Wednesday, June 13
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Science Frontiers: “From Front Porch to the Alter: Nonverbal Courtship Signaling Then and Now”
Missouri History Museum in Forest Park - Lee Auditorium
Perspectives on Science & History Lecture Series: A joint lecture series co-sponsored by the
Academy of Science-St. Louis and the Missouri Historical Society.
Free

Thursday, June 14 - Monday, June 18
Show-me Missouri Fish Mobile Aquarium
Union Station
Downtown, St. Louis

Sunday, June 17
11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
CommUNITY Days at Fairground Park: Sounds in the Park
Free
Celebrate Juneteenth and Father’s Day!

Since 1856, Fairground Park at Grand Avenue and Natural Bridge Road has been part of our city’s rich history. Join the Whitaker Foundation and the Missouri Historical Society for an exciting new summer series featuring concerts, arts, history and fun! commUNITY Days at Fairground Park celebrates community spirit, family togetherness, education and literacy, neighborhood beautification and the rich heritage of this historic park. Please join us at the corner of Grand Avenue and Kossuth Avenue in Fairground Park for these fun-filled events: Storytelling, crafts, face painting, mask making, magicians jugglers, & mini museum.

Tuesday, June 19
7 pm
Cycling & Green Recreation: A Happy Hour and Fitness Combo
William A Kerr Foundation
21 O’Fallon StreetSt. Louis, MO 63102
Free
Sponsored by StlGreendrinks.org
For more info: visit here

Wednesday, June 20
6:00 -8:00 pm
RFT Cocktails for a Cause
To Benefit Habitat ReStore in partnership with O'Leary's Restaurant.
O'Leary's will provide complimentary chosen cocktails and drafts. You provide the friends and fun.
Cost: $10.00/person and the ENTIRE AMOUNT goes to Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis ReStore.
O'Leary's Resturant
3828 S. Lindberg Blvd.
Saint Louis, MO 63127
314-842-7678

Monday, June 25
5:30-7:30 p.m.
African American Leadership – Charmaine Chapman Society 2007 Kickoff
Busch Stadium Redbird Club (Enter at gate 2 at the southwest corner of the stadium. Parking available in Lot C)
Come enjoy hors d'oeuvres and drinks as we kick off our 2007 Campaign.
Please RSVP to Orvin Kimbrough at 314-539-4113 or ccs@stl.unitedway.org.

Tuesday, June 26
6:30 - 8:30 pm
Metropolis Wine Club Goes to California
2750 Chippewa at California
Cost: A bottle of California Wine or appetizers to share

Wednesday, June 27
5:30 - 8:30pm
"B SEEN" 2007: Presented by Alive Magazine, The Boulevard St. Louis and Cheresse INK
"B SEEN" sipping complimentary cocktails provided by Boulevard Beer, CrownValley Winery & Pearl Vodka
"B SEEN" tasting tantalizing hors d'oeuvres from PF Chang's and Maggiano's
"B SEEN" in the Lexus models courtesy of Dave Mungenast
"B SEEN" shopping on Main Street
"B SEEN" dancing the night away to the band MY FRIEND MIKE
The Boulevard - WHERE TO "B" SEEN!


Thursday, June 28
6:00 - 8:00 pm
Purses for Pooches & Pals: Professional Networking Event for Women.
Human Society of Missouri
1201 Macklind Ave
Hey Ladies! Are you ready to for some real and dynamic networking? Are you interested in expanding your career and helping others? Well, The Humane Society's Benefit for sheltered animals & Dress for Success is a 1-2-3 punch. Donate a purse to benefit women in career transition learn more about helping animals, and meet some influential professional women in the St. Louis Metro.
Cost: $25, purchase online here

Thursday, June 28
7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Shrek the Movie, opening by Shakespeare in the Park
St. Louis Place Park
Old North St. Louis
Apart of Whitaker Urban Evenings Series
Free

Thursday, June 28
7:30 pm - 10:30 pm
St. Louis Magazine's A-List Party
St. Louis Magazine throws a stylish street party to celebrate our annual A-List award winners. Enjoy St. Louis' finest food, desserts, drink and music set amongst a scene of interesting sights to see; an open bar; then dance under the stars to beats from city's hottest DJ.
COSTS: $35 advance, $40 at the door. Ticket price includes open bar and complimentary valet parking, hors d'oeuvres and desserts. Metropolis members get a discount.

Saturday, June 30
9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
St. Louis Writers Guild: Day for the Young at Heart
St. Louis Science Museum
An all day event featuring story telling, book signings and educational presentations by local St. Louis authors.
Scheduled Presentations
11am - Have Fun - Write a Story with Jud Miner
1pm - Discover Your Family History Stories with Fran Hamilton
3pm - The big Write wtih Katie Shanahan

Ongoing
Page Turners: Adult Reading Club Sponsored by the St. Louis City Public Library.
Read and become eligible to win prizes including tickets to a cardinals game and a laptop computer.
All summer through August 11th.

Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum Summer 2007 Exhibitions
Current Exhibitions:
- Andrea Fraser, "What do I as an artist, provide?"
- Ansel Adams: Reverence for Life
- Annual MFA Thesis Exhibition
Exhibits run through July 16th.

Frontyard Features Free Outside Movie Viewings
40 Nights. 40 Movies.
See a host of classic and relatively new movies outside from your lawn chair.
A variety of movied will be featured at various outside venues and parks throughout the Metro area.
Bring your own beverages and snacks and enjoy Movie Night.
5:00 - 7:00 p.m. now through September.

Bourgeois Summer 2007: Step into the Mainstream

Boughee is a slang reference to bourgeois. Bourgeois is a very loaded term. For many people it is a general reference to people from the middle socio-economic class or at least people who have middle-class values. And what’s a middle class value? Colloquially, it usually means placing high value on higher education, home ownership, financial independence, being involved in general political and social discourse, and having some familiarity with various arts. In essence, being boughee implies a person is well-rounded, grounded, and well-versed, though not necessarily well-heeled.

There are negative connotations of boughee, too. And among minority citizens, the negative descriptors are perhaps more common than the descriptors listed above. But, we’ll not address those items. Rather, let’s focus on the real essence of “boughee-ness”. And to do so means elevating the Fête Society and thinking about what the presence of persons of color at certain events and venues signal to others. It is time to think about how we shape audiences’ attitudes and expectations when we attend certain events en masse. By adding a significant amount of ‘color to the room’ we signal that Black people enjoy lots of things, and that we are not limited to the only participating in the stereotypical ‘black events’. Some events are fun, plain and simple. Color, class, and education have nothing to do with it. But for a variety of reasons, we don’t participate (or only a handful of individuals participate). We are a viable target audience to market and we should recognize the power of our demographic.

Therefore, it is in this spirit that I declare the theme for the 2007 Boughee Summer: Step into the Mainstream.

May 2007 Events

Thursday, May 3rd
6:00 pm
SEIC Awards Ceremony
May Auditorium, Simon Hall
The second annual Social Entrepreneurship & Innovation Competition will close with this event, and the naming of the 2007 winning teams. Come see which teams will walk away with the combined $125,000 in funding! This event will feature keynote speaker Leslie D. Michelson, founder, CEO, investor, advisor and director for a portfolio of entrepreneurial healthcare, technology and real estate companies.
Cost: FREE

Thirst for Life – Benefiting PAWS (Pets are a Wonderful Support) and St. Louis Effort for AIDS. Before, I have served as a captain for the Dining Out for Life fundraiser and awareness campaign held in November. Now, there is a summer counterpart for the Sotty! Come on out!

Saturday, May 12th
7pm - 10pm

Thirst For Life 2007 Kick-Off Party

The Kentucky Club

4162-68 Manchester in the Grove

COST: Wristbands are $25.00 and are your admission to the event.

Thursday, May 17th
Happy Hour

Thirst for Life – Cocktails for a Cause
Visit one of several bars throughout the metro area and at least 25% of your bill will benefit the St. Louis Effort for AIDS and PAWS

Thursday, May 24th
6:00pm
Science Frontiers: “It’s So Easy Being Green: Breaking New Ground in (Residential & Commercial) Green Building Design & Construction.”
Attend this special event—held at the Alberici Headquarters—to learn more about the growing trend in Green Building Design & Construction. Several experts in the field will provide insights into this hot topic—and don’t miss the reception and Alberici building tours! Register to attend at http://www.sc.wustl.edu/
Cost: Free

May 8th Event

Autumn 2007

St. Louis Speakers Series
presented by Maryville University and KWMU 90.7 FM